POWWOW

Capturing the flash and rhythm of Native American dances as performed during a ``pan-Indian'' Crow Fair in Montana, photographer Ancona is at his experienced best. Featured here is Anthony Standing Rock, a boy transformed from T-shirted kid to warrior-dancer; but the real focus is on the on four kinds of dancers—Traditional, Fancy, Grass, and Jingle-dress—and on the grace and excitement of their performances. Complementary photos and text are skillfully interwoven to explain the customary clothing, the dances' different styles, and the pride and honor the rituals convey. Particularly moving are some individual ceremonies: a giveaway of items for an honored dancer; a family dance to welcome a little girl into the ranks of the dancers. The unity of the many tribes engaged in the ceremony, the sense of family, and the cherishing of actively participating children are all themes young people will appreciate. A lively, positive portrayal of contemporary Native Americans. (Nonfiction. 6-12)